Math Problem Statement
Solution
The expression provided in the image is:
Step 1: Factor the numerator and the denominator
Numerator:
We need to factor this quadratic expression. We look for two numbers that multiply to and add to . The numbers are and .
So we rewrite as :
Now factor by grouping:
Denominator:
This is a difference of squares:
Step 2: Simplify the expression
Now we have:
Cancel the common factor from the numerator and the denominator:
Final Answer:
The simplified form of the expression is:
Would you like further details or explanations? Here are some related questions:
- How do you factor a quadratic expression like ?
- What is the difference of squares and how is it factored?
- Why can you cancel out terms like in a rational expression?
- How would the expression change if it were instead of ?
- What if the quadratic in the denominator couldn't be factored? How would you approach it?
Tip: Always check for common factors when simplifying algebraic expressions, but make sure that any term you're canceling is a factor, not just part of a term!
Ask a new question for Free
By Image
Drop file here or Click Here to upload
Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Algebra
Quadratic Equations
Factoring
Rational Expressions
Formulas
Quadratic expression factorization
Difference of squares: a^2 - b^2 = (a - b)(a + b)
Theorems
Difference of squares theorem
Suitable Grade Level
Grades 9-11
Related Recommendation
Simplifying Rational Expressions Involving Factoring: (x^2 - 6x - 16) / x * (2x / (x^2 - 4))
Simplifying Rational Expressions Involving Quadratics and Difference of Squares
Simplifying the Rational Expression (x^2 + 6x - 16) / (2 - x)
Simplify Rational Expression ((x^2 - 16)(x^2 + 9)) / ((x - 3)(x + 4))
Simplifying the Rational Expression (4x^5 - 25x^4 + 40x^3 + 5x^2 - 30x - 18)/(x^2 - 6x + 9)